The Spanish rugby team is scheduled to face the United States this Saturday in Villajoyosa, where the La Vila International Cup final will take place at 20:00. This clash is seen as a marker of momentum under the new leadership, following the arrival of Argentinian coach Pablo Bouza who has been guiding the sport management side of the squad.
After earning a 42-20 victory over Canada in the semi-final, Spain now aims to confirm its recent ascent against an opponent that advanced by defeating Brazil 48-3 in the other semi-final.
La Vila: a focal point for rugby on the world stage
The tournament is shaping up as a showcase of transformation and aspiration, with a squad keen to build a cohesive unit capable of delivering consistent results and securing a pathway toward the next major milestone—the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
This match marks Miguel Velasco’s final appearance in Spain’s setup as Bouza chose to work from behind the scenes during the tournament, focusing on observation and data collection to inform future selections and coaching decisions.
Following the game, Bouza will swap roles with Velasco, who will continue his duties within the technical staff of the national team, ensuring continuity in development and strategy.
Spain heads into the match after significant changes and returnees: Vicente del Hoyo and Matheo Triki rejoin the squad, and Joaquín Gali and Nicolás Fernández will don the national jersey for the first time. Mario Pichardie is set to captain the team in this encounter, signaling the renewed leadership developing within the squad.
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The United States sits 18th in the World Rugby rankings, one place ahead of Los Leones. Like Spain, the Americans are pursuing the same high aims, though their ambitions extend beyond this tournament as they prepare to host the next World Cup in 2033. The U.S. coaching staff includes seasoned figures such as former All Blacks selector Alama Ieremia, Elvis Seveali’i, and former England international Nick Easter, a core group expected to bring experience and strategic insight to the squad.
Before the main final, the schedule features third and fourth place matches held at El Pantano, with Canada meeting Brazil at 16:00 to determine the standings in that bracket.
Notes and context for fans and analysts: the La Vila event continues to attract global attention as a proving ground for emerging talent and tactical experimentation. The interplay between Bouza’s analytical approach and Velasco’s traditional coaching instincts offers a compelling narrative about the direction of Spanish rugby. The outcome of the final may lay the groundwork for future selections and the broader program’s trajectory toward a strong showing on the world stage. (Citation: tournament organizer communications)